Migration agents
 

Is it worth getting an agent to do the visa application?

Re: Migration agents
 

Try looking at this thread. Or check out the immigration forum, there are lots of threads on the subject.

http://britishexpats.com/forum/showt...migrant+agents

Good luck

Re: Migration agents
 

Looking at the VISA application form 47SK, it seems quite straight forward, but its all the other things that go with it that could cause the greatest hassle. As mentioned by others, you do most of the work while the Agent colates everything into a presentable format that the Immigration department wants to see. If this isn't correct then your application will just get thrown on the NO pile, and you will have to start all over again.

The agent will work with you in achieving your goal and will chase up the Immigration department for you to see how your application is doing and will, and if you need to send on anything else etc.

I would get an agent if you are not confident enough with all the paperwork. Finding the right one is the next thing. Do agents specialise in different types of VISA's ?

Re: Migration agents
 

That's akin to 'how long is a piece of string'. Whether to use an agent or not depends on a whole heap of things:- Is your case straightforward? Do you have the time to collate all the info? Are you confident enough that you'll get it right first time?

At the very least you could speak to an agent for a free consultation (most of the good ones offer this) and then make an informed decision.

Re: Migration agents
 

Can you recommend a good (cheap?) agent. WE live in Brussels, don't know if that will cause problems.

Re: Migration agents
 

Do you know which type of visa you are looking at? There are many tests on the web that allow you to check your points to see what your best option would be to apply under. Try this link. www.liveinaustralia.com. It's free and only takes about 10 mins. This is how we started, it gives you an idea of what theya re looking for and what to focus on.

Hope this helps you.

Judith

Re: Migration agents
 

A general skilled migration.

Re: Migration agents
 

Well I'm not using one personally so I can't really recommend. However, there are a few agents who post on here and regularly get praised by their clients - search for George Lombard, Alan Collett or Steven O'Neill.
Being in Brussells shouldn't be a problem - I'm pretty sure all three of these guys are based in Oz anyway.

Re: Migration agents
 

A cheap agent may not necessarily be a good one.... you pay for what you get!!!

We are using Go Matilda who have a base in the Uk as well as Aus, but can do everything via post/e-mail etc, so Brussells shouldn't be a problem. They have many good recommendations on this forum.

Saying that, their fee did not seem jaw droppingly large to us for our piece of mind to have our application reviewed prior to being sent to DIMIA.

Re: Migration agents
 

our agent was superb...he is based in Sydney we were in Scotland..did everything via e-mail etc......cost us $3500 for his services....money well spent......if u want name etc pm me

Re: Migration agents
 

If you do want an agent I can recommend ASA, www.australia-migration.com. You can register online for a free assessment before you have to pay anything, and I thought they were great. Good luck with your application.

SS

Re: Migration agents
 

Agent recommendations:-

1. www.liveinaustralia.com
2. [email protected]
3. www.gomatilda.com

I have been using the first of these since Sept. 2004.We have had a very complicated route so far and the agents have been helpful and quick with their e-mailed responses. They are based in Oz, which at times is frustrating because of the time delay, but they always reply to queries by the next day unless it is the weekend. We have only paid the lower fees so that we had help to do the process ourselves.

The other agents come highly recommended by friends who have already emigrated and by people on this site. Both are based in the UK (and Oz), so you can speak to them more readily during the day. I have spoken with both regarding our present situation and found them to be very helpful, with quick replies to my initial e-mail to them, followed by an in depth phone conversation - all free of charge.

If I had to choose I would go for a UK based company now as they are more accessible. Much easier when there is no time difference!!

Hope this helps.

Re: Migration agents
 

What makes it complicated? not passing points test/being close to it/skills assessment? What constitutes an easy visa application?